Thursday, February 17, 2011

Can You Name Utah's Newest Brewery?

-If your answer is Epic Brewing Co. I'm sorry to say, "you are incorrect"! Had I asked you this question yesterday you would have been spot on, but not today. This morning Utah's newest brewery is officially about to go online. Please welcome, Shades of Pale Brewing Company.

We first became aware of SOP back in November of 2009. Utah's newest brewery is the brainchild of Trent Fargher & his wife Alexandra. The two relocated to Summit County seven years ago from the Breckenridge, Colo., area.

This has been a long time in coming. Trent had hoped to have the brewery on-line last summer, but the realities of starting up a small "Mom & Pop" brewery quickly became apparent. From permits - to equipment issues - to an ever changing market, the business model would undergo many changes.

Even though SOP hasn't officially been making beer Trent & Alex have been out in the community at many local and nearby beer festivals giving local beer lovers a taste of possible things to come.

In late 2010 it became apparent that this entire operation was going to be too much for two Homebrewers to pull off. Tent and Alex needed some guidance from someone who's been in the brewing industry and found it in Brewer Matt Davis, formerly of RedRock Brewing company. With Matt's insights SOP found a solid direction and a fresh set of eyes (and tongue).

As of this morning, SOP will start the next chapter in Utah's Beer history by making Jack Wagon Wheat beer. It's described as an American Style Wheat beer, with over a 50% wheat grain bill, nutty with light citrus under tones. Low bitterness with sweat floral nose. This will be released in kegs however they are working on securing a small filler to pump out 22 oz. bombers in the next month. Look for beers of various ABVs to come out of SOP in the coming year.

I'm very excited for this; the newest chapter of Utah's beer history. Let's raise a glass to Utah's newest brewery and wish them well.